Embracing Multiple Cultures

Born in America to Chinese immigrant parents, Angela identifies as Chinese American. Although growing up she attended a predominantly White school, she was taught by her parents Chinese culture and language at home. Despite her being accustomed to the traditions and food of her heritage, Angela felt as though she was being seen as a foreigner by her extended family when visiting China, as her relatives were surprised that she could speak fluent Chinese and eat any of the food. While questioning how Chinese she “really” was, she also wondered how American she truly was, due to others making fun of her for her ethnicity and the food she brought for lunch. Even though she never felt fully Chinese or fully American, Angela was able to explore her experiences in her local Chinese Association, which taught her more about her roots and inspired her to share culture with others.

Angela aspires to become an educator in Chinese language in order to encourage awareness and appreciation of different cultures among kids. When talking about traditions, culture, clothing, and food with other Cross-Cultural Kids, she is able to find similarities within the unique experiences of their respective cultures. Now embracing her identity as Chinese American, Angela says, “I’m able to be a part of and learn about two different cultures, which I find to be quite fulfilling, since I was born not limited to just one culture in this world.”